- Medically Reviewed by Mr Mfazo Hove Consultant Ophthalmologist
- Author: Chris Dunnington
- Published: January 23, 2025
At Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic in London, we’re committed to providing our patients with the most advanced and effective treatments for eye conditions. One such treatment that has revolutionised glaucoma care is Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT). In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what SLT is, how it works, and why it might be the right choice for managing your glaucoma.
Understanding Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty, or SLT, is an innovative laser treatment designed to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with glaucoma. This procedure is particularly effective for those with open-angle glaucoma, the most common form of the condition.
How Does SLT Work?
SLT uses low-energy laser pulses to target specific cells in the eye’s drainage system. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
- Targeting: The laser selectively affects pigmented cells in the trabecular meshwork, the eye’s primary drainage channel.
- Stimulation: This targeted approach stimulates the body’s natural healing response.
- Improved Drainage: As a result, the drainage system is rejuvenated, allowing for better fluid outflow from the eye.
- Pressure Reduction: This improved drainage leads to a decrease in intraocular pressure, which is crucial in managing glaucoma.
The Benefits of SLT
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty offers several advantages over traditional glaucoma treatments:
- Minimally Invasive: SLT is a quick, outpatient procedure with minimal discomfort.
- Medication-Free Option: It can reduce or eliminate the need for daily glaucoma eye drops.
- Repeatable: Unlike some other laser treatments, SLT can be repeated if necessary.
- Preserves Eye Tissue: The selective nature of the laser means it doesn’t cause damage to surrounding eye structures.
- Cost-Effective: Over time, SLT can be more cost-effective than long-term medication use.
Who is a Candidate for SLT?
SLT is suitable for many patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. It’s particularly beneficial for:
- Patients newly diagnosed with glaucoma
- Those who have difficulty with or are intolerant to glaucoma medications
- Individuals seeking to reduce their dependence on eye drops
- Patients whose IOP is not adequately controlled with current treatments
At Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic, our specialists will assess your individual case to determine if SLT is the right option for you.
The SLT Procedure: What to Expect
Understanding the procedure can help alleviate any concerns you might have. Here’s what you can expect when undergoing SLT at our London clinic:
- Preparation: Your eye will be numbed with anaesthetic drops.
- Positioning: You’ll be seated at a specialised laser machine, similar to the one used for routine eye examinations.
- Treatment: A special lens is placed on your eye to direct the laser light to the trabecular meshwork.
- Duration: The procedure typically takes about 5-10 minutes per eye.
- Sensation: You may see flashes of light and feel a slight tingling, but the procedure is generally painless.
After the Procedure
Post-treatment care is minimal, but important:
- Immediate Effects: Your vision may be slightly blurry for a few hours.
- Recovery: Most patients can resume normal activities the next day.
- Follow-up: We’ll schedule a check-up to monitor your eye pressure and overall response to the treatment.
The Effectiveness of SLT
Recent studies, including the landmark LiGHT trial, have shown SLT to be highly effective:
- Pressure Reduction: SLT can lower eye pressure by 20-30% in many patients.
- Long-lasting Effects: The benefits of a single treatment can last 2-5 years or longer.
- Comparable to Medications: SLT has been shown to be as effective as, and in some cases superior to, eye drop medications.
SLT as a First-Line Treatment
Traditionally, SLT was used as a secondary treatment when medications weren’t effective. However, recent research supports its use as a first-line treatment for glaucoma:
- Immediate Action: Unlike medications, which require consistent daily use, SLT begins working immediately.
- Compliance: It eliminates concerns about patient adherence to medication regimens.
- Quality of Life: Patients can avoid the daily burden and potential side effects of eye drops.
Safety and Side Effects
SLT is generally considered very safe, with minimal risk of complications. Potential side effects are usually mild and short-lived:
- Slight eye redness or discomfort
- Temporary increase in eye pressure (usually resolves within 24 hours)
- Mild inflammation (easily managed with short-term eye drops)
Our experienced team at Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic in London will thoroughly discuss any potential risks and how to manage them.
Why Choose Blue Fin Vision® for Your SLT Treatment?
When considering SLT, choosing the right eye clinic is crucial. At Blue Fin Vision®, we offer:
- Expertise: Our specialists are highly trained and experienced in performing SLT.
- Advanced Technology: We use state-of-the-art laser equipment for precise and safe treatments.
- Personalised Care: We tailor our approach to each patient’s unique needs and circumstances.
- Comprehensive Support: From initial consultation to post-treatment care, we’re with you every step of the way.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for Glaucoma Management
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty represents a significant advancement in glaucoma treatment. Its effectiveness, safety profile, and potential to reduce reliance on medications make it an attractive option for many patients.
At Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic in London, we’re proud to offer this innovative treatment as part of our comprehensive glaucoma care. If you’re struggling with glaucoma management or are newly diagnosed, SLT could be the solution you’ve been looking for.
Don’t let glaucoma dim your vision of the future. Contact Blue Fin Vision® today to schedule a consultation and learn if Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty is right for you. Together, we can take a clear-sighted approach to managing your eye health.